Gout is a disease which is caused by crystallization of uric acid in the tiny bones of the feet and joints. It is manifested by severe pain, swelling, and stiffness. Accumulation of uric acid is the major cause of this issue, due to the body`s inability to eliminate excess uric acid.
Uric acid is byproduct of purines, organic compounds which can be found in many foods. Gout is typically accompanied with elevated levels of uric acid in the blood, known as hyperuricemia. However, only small percentage of those suffering from this condition will develop gout.
The good news is that there are various ways to remove uric acid from the body and overcome gout naturally. First and foremost, you need to make some dietary and lifestyle changes, focusing on the consumption of more fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean meat. On other hand, you should avoid foods rich in saturated fats, alcohol, and processed sugars. It is very important to drink plenty of water in order to stay well hydrated and to eliminate toxins from the body. Besides water, you can also consume natural unsweetened juices, herbal teas, and fruit infused water. Last but not least, try to reduce stress as much as possible.
The following foods are known to prevent and treat gout:
- Flaxseeds
Flaxseeds are very effective at reducing serum uric acid from the body.
- Bromelain
Bromelain is type of enzyme which is naturally found in pineapples. It is known for its potent analgesic and anti-inflammatory properties.
- Turmeric
Turmeric acts as powerful anti-inflammatory agent which prevents gout due to its huge role in renal protection.
How To Reduce Uric Acid
Changes to dietary intake should be a lifestyle change implemented and followed for life. Proper dietary intake generally consists of a variety of fresh colorful fruits and vegetables; lean meat and seafood, and whole, unprocessed, unenriched grains.
- The reduction of processed sugars such as high fructose corn syrup, food high in saturated fats, and alcohol are healthy practices for everyone.
- The body should be kept hydrated with a combination of water, natural juices without any added sugar, fruit infused water, and herbal teas sweetened with honey.
- Stress should be reduced when and wherever possible through means which are easily obtainable. A hike in the mountains, or any form of natural landscape, provides physical activity and a wonderful environment to meditate in.
- Water, as mentioned, keeps the body hydrated and assists in flushing the body ridding it of toxins including overloads of uric acid.
Helpful Tonics To Fight Gout
- Lemon water is delicious, increases the alkalinity of the body, and prevents uric acid crystal formation. Squeeze half of a lemon into 8 ounces of warm or tepid water to drink every morning prior to breakfast.
- Add a tablespoon of apple cider vinegar to 8 ounces of water to drink prior to lunch and supper every day. Apple cider vinegar also increases body alkalinity. Systems which are slightly more alkaline than acidic prevent gout and numerous other negative health conditions. This form of vinegar contains malic acid which is believed to not only breakdown uric acid, but help flush it from the body.
- Sodium bicarbonate, also known as baking soda, has been shown to be an effective prophylaxis candidate for the reduction of uric acid in the body. Adding half of a teaspoon to one glass of water a day is best for prevention. An increase to a whole teaspoon is more effective for current attacks of gout.
Source: healthylifevision.com